The Indian boxing contingent also began their campaign on Saturday, July 27 with Preeti Pawar making a winning start in women’s 54kg category at the Paris Olympics 2024. The Indian boxer defeated Vo Thi Kim Anh of Vietnam, confirming her pre-quarterfinals berth.
While it marked Preeti’s debut at the Olympic Games, where she triumphed over her Vietnamese opponent with a unanimous 5-0 decision on points. The 20-year-old athlete, who hails from Haryana however did not have the start that was expected as the Vietnamese international took an early lead in the 54kg bout. But her determination helped her reverse the situation and take the game in her favour with her clear hits.
The Haryana-athlete will now take on a tough challenge as she is set to face Colombia’s Marcela Yeni Arias in the round of 16. It is to be noted that Arias is a second seeded in the competition and a silver medallist at the World Championships. The two are set to take on Tuesday, July 30.
Indian boxers in action on Day 2 of Paris Olympics 2024
After Preeti Pawar, India’s top medal prospect and the reigning world champion, Nikhat Zareen will take on a tough challenge in women’s 50kg category on Sunday, July 28. The Indian boxer will take on Germany’s Carina Kloetzer and if she manages to come out on top, she could face China’s Wu Yu, the top seeded and Asian Games champion in the second round.
3:50 pm: Nikhat Zareen vs Kloetzer Maxi Carina (Germany) in Women’s 50kg – Round of 32.